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Bollywood bigwigs skip AK Hangal’s funeral

Yesteryear actor AK Hnagal died on Sunday morning at Asha Parekh hospital.
He was 98. AK Hangal who was not in good state of health for quite sometime is admitted
to Asha Parekh hospital after he fell down and suffered fracture on thigh bone.
On investigation, doctors found that the old man has breathing and other
problems. He was cremated yesterday but it is a matter of great regret that no
Bollywood bigwigs turned up for the funeral.

The only celebrities who was spotted at the funeral is actor Raza Murad,
Rakesh Bedi and singer Ila Arun. The actor who gave his life to film industry
and starred in more than 225 films did not get his due credit for his incredible
innings in Bollywood.

His son Vijay said, "My father was highly spirited and fought till the
end. He survived even after life support was taken off." He added,
"He even shot a small scene for the TV serial ‘Madhubala’ despite his poor
health. The moment the camera was switched on, his energy came back.''

The actor's financial condition became worsened few years back and his son
Vijay had to stop work to look after his ail father. After reports about
Hangal's poor financial condition, the information and broadcasting ministry
announced a plan for health insurance of retired actors which has not yet
materialized. Later, film industry came forward to help the actor with
financial aid.

Vijay said, "The industry's aid did help us pull through all his
medical needs. Though film industry bigwigs were not there, his friends from
IPTA and character actors attended the cremation. We are planning a condolence
meeting at Prithvi Theatre at 4pm on Monday.''

Murad said, "The actors would've come if a political party summoned
them. But they didn't have an hour to spare to pay their last respects to the
man who gave 50 years to the industry and worked with all top stars.''